Big Juds — Review by BeardMeatsFood
Boise, United States — American Diner/Burgers
The reviewer successfully completed Big Juds' Man Versus Food Challenge burger in 19 minutes and 4 seconds, finishing the two-pound double patty burger with 10 pieces of bacon, multiple cheese layers, mushrooms, fries, and a drink within the 30-minute time limit. While the burger's cheese and bacon combination was praised, the overwhelming abundance of mushrooms was the main complaint throughout the challenge.
What was great: The burger patties mixed with American cheese, blue cheese, and bacon; fresh cut fries with Idaho sauce (mayo and ketchup mix); huckleberry shake
What could improve: Excessive amount of mushrooms on the burger; blue cheese intensity
The Dishes
The Man Versus Food burger, priced at $45.99, is an impressive creation featuring two one-pound patties, ten pieces of bacon, two layers of mushrooms, two layers of blue cheese crumbles, Swiss cheese, mayo, tomatoes, and lettuce. The reviewer noted that while the patty mixed with American cheese, blue cheese, and bacon created a somewhat intense but enjoyable flavor profile, the mushrooms were the standout complaint throughout the challenge. The burger was served with large fresh cut fries and a drink. The fries were particularly noteworthy, as they came with a special Idaho sauce made from a half mayo, half ketchup mixture. After completing the challenge, the reviewer also tried the huckleberry shake, describing it as a purple-tinted drink with a slightly less sour blueberry flavor that was quite nice.
The Experience
Big Juds has a welcoming, casual diner atmosphere with a wall of fame featuring photos of past challenge completers spanning 30 years. The staff was friendly and supportive throughout the challenge, providing encouragement and keeping track of time. The reviewer noted that only one person had previously completed this latest iteration of the Man Versus Food burger in just over 28 minutes, making it a significant achievement. The kitchen staff was visible and the overall vibe was celebratory when the challenge was beaten.
Value & Pricing
At $45.99, the Man Versus Food burger is a premium-priced item, but given its massive size and the reward of a t-shirt and free meal upon completion, it offers legitimate value for challenge enthusiasts. The portion size is enormous with mandatory toppings that cannot be substituted, ensuring a consistent and filling experience.
Notable Moments
This thing cost $45.99 to order and all the toppings are mandatory. The mushrooms, the blue cheese. I think there were 10 pieces of bacon on there. Absolutely no switches.
19 minutes and 4 seconds
The reviewer successfully beat the challenge in under 20 minutes, becoming only the second person to complete the latest iteration and securing a spot on the wall of fame alongside a free meal and t-shirt.
The Verdict
Big Juds is a legendary establishment famous for its food challenge heritage, featured on the TV show Man Versus Food back in the day. The restaurant is best suited for those who enjoy burger challenges and don't mind mushrooms, though casual diners will find solid burgers and sides. The friendly staff and competitive atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for food enthusiasts visiting Idaho, even if you're not attempting the challenge itself.